Survival Arts

Winter Survival Course, 1-2 March 2003, near Bear Valley, California

The following was sent to me by Ken Lux, a northern California teacher in the Bujinkan martial arts. Priority for attendance goes to Bujinkan students, but remaining training slots can be filled with non-practicioners.

I've trained with Rob Chang on a rappelling and climbing course, and can attest to his excellent skills and teaching ability. I highly recommend him.

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"If you've ever wanted to find out what it takes to survive overnight out in the elements, here's your chance...

We will be exposed to all aspects of winter survival and will customize the training to meet the participants' interests. All levels are welcome.

WHEN: March 1 & 2, 2003
WHERE: Near Bear Valley (centrally located to Sacramento, Stockton and the Bay Area)
COST:$100.00, plus food and rental gear as needed.

We will have at least one planning/instructional meeting before the event to familiarize everyone with the training and activities.

About the instructor:
Robert Chang is a world-class rock and ice climbing expert and owns and operates a consulting service. With over 15 years of climbing and instructing experience, he has climbed mountains all over the world including Mt. Everest and Ama Dablam. His experience and accolades are many. Some of the companies that he has trained include Alza, Arthur Andersen, Inventa, Gateway Computers, Verde Multimedia and Cisco. He has a standing contract with the NHL San Jose Sharks and has been the Compaq Center's senior stunt coordinator for the San Jose Sharks mascot since 1993. He has climbed and/or trained with Army Green Berets, Navy SEALs, Air Force Pararescue Jumpers.

Robert holds a Bachelors Degree in Administration of Justice with a focus in management and had special focuses in Outdoor Recreation Instruction and Child Development.

Here are some of the details on the Winter Survival Course.

Course info:

A. Pre-trip Meeting (Wednesday, February 12, 2003)
1. Training Goals and Trip Overview
2. Environmental and Terrain Hazards and Considerations
3. Equipment Selection
4. Physical fitness and mental preparation
5. Suggested/required readings

B. Field Trip Outline (2 days, 1 night in the field)
Day One
1. Equipment Prep
2. Snow shoeing and terrain navigation
3. Camp/bivouac selection
4. Camp/latrine/cook areas designation
5. Snow shelters
6. Winter survival-snow camping/food and water source preparation
7. Avalanche awareness
7. Basic mountaineering principles
Day Two
1. Ice axe and crampon usage
2. Winter environment camouflage
A general overview of assessment and treatment of cold injuries such as hypothermia, frostbite and Acute Mountain Sickness will be addressed.

We will meet for pre-trip planning/logistics Wednesday, February 12, 2003. This will prepare people for the trip and for the kinds of gear that will be needed...

For anyone who does not feel comfortable camping in the snow, there is lodging available for an extra cost. This will allow participants to attend the training, but have some of the conveniences of home.

The seminar will be taught with a continual hands-on learning element which includes a high emphasis on personal and group safety.

In order to book the instructor, pre-registration is necessary.

If you would like to attend, please send a non-refundable $50.00 deposit. (The balance will be due at the pre-meeting, Wednesday, February 12, 2003). Include your name and email so Rob (the instructor) can forward you the
class/confirmation specifics.

Please make checks payable to "2003 ITLEE" and mail the check to:

Rob Chang
985 Capitola Way
Santa Clara, CA 95051

Phone: (408) 984-8008

If you have any question regarding the class, registration or lodging, please contact Rob Chang."

Posted by Russell Whitaker at January 25, 2003 11:46 AM | TrackBack